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Mission Statement
The mission of James S. Rickards High School is to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to succeed at the local, state, national, and international levels. Our students will emerge as responsible, self-supporting, and productive members of society, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.
Vision Statement
At James S. Rickards High School, our vision is to provide students with a caring and supportive learning environment that empowers them to reach their fullest potential through high-quality programs, instruction, and experiences.
We invite you to partner with us in achieving our mission and bringing it to life. Please consider volunteering your time or joining our School Advisory Council. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and strengthen our surrounding community.
Grades: 9th - 12th
Enrollment: 1668
Principal: Mr. Maurice Stokes
Assistant Principals: Dr. D. Barnes, Mr. C. Cowart, Mrs. Gautney, & Mr. S. Striplin
School Hours: 7:25 AM – 1:55 PM
Principal’s Message
Principal Maurice Stokes is an accomplished educational leader with more than 20 years of experience dedicated to improving student achievement, fostering positive school cultures, and building strong community partnerships. A certified Florida school principal, he has successfully led elementary, middle, and high schools. His outstanding leadership has earned numerous honors, including Leon County's 2025 Jo Glick Principal of the Year, Gadsden County's Principal of the Year (2020 and 2021), and three Florida Department of Education Principal Achievement Awards. An alumnus of the Florida Department of Education Commissioner's Leadership Academy, Principal Stokes is committed to educational excellence, data-driven leadership, and empowering students, educators, and communities.
Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Community Members,
Welcome to James S. Rickards High School, home of the Raiders!
At James S. Rickards High School, we are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, opportunity, and pride. Our school is built on the belief that every student has the potential to achieve greatness when provided with a supportive, challenging, and inclusive learning environment.
Our mission is to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to succeed at the local, state, national, and international levels. Our students will emerge as responsible, self-supporting, and productive members of society, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond. We are proud to offer a wide range of opportunities in rigorous academics, career and technical education, fine and performing arts, athletics, and numerous clubs and organizations that allow every student to discover and develop their unique talents.
At Rickards, we encourage our students to become lifelong learners, compassionate leaders, and engaged members of their community. Together with our dedicated faculty, staff, families, and community partners, we strive to ensure that every Raider graduates prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
Thank you for being a part of the James S. Rickards High School family. We look forward to an exciting year filled with achievement, growth, and Raider pride.
Go Raiders!
Mr. Maurice Stokes
Phone: 850-414-5500 | Email
Frequently Asked Questions
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We offer a range of programs, including special education, English language development, gifted education, and counseling services to support diverse student needs.
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Safety is our top priority. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills, and on-site staff trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.
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Our elementary school day typically begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m., with after-school programs available for families needing extended care.
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Registration is straightforward and can be done online or in person at the school office. Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
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We welcome family involvement! Parents can volunteer in classrooms, join the PTA, participate in family nights, or attend school events. Your involvement strengthens our school community and supports your child's learning experience.
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Technology is integrated to enhance learning, with resources such as interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software that support students' digital literacy and engagement.
